Taking the train from Williams to the Grand Canyon was probably one of the best experiences of my life. We splurged and upgraded to first-class. This was worth the price tag. The first-class cars are temperature regulated, have an attendant taking orders and serving drinks throughout the entire experience, and includes free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. You also have your own private bathroom just for your train car. When in the first-class car, you can elect to sit facing forward (two seats together) OR you can have the seats turned around to form a group of four. Note -- the group of four option decreases legroom significantly. The ride itself was incredible. You get to experience the diverse landscape of Northern Arizona, and may even see some wildlife. We got to see cattle, deer, birds, and way more. You also get to experience live entertainment, as performers will come once or twice during the trip to perform a couple of songs in your car. The train drops you off at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for about three hours. It is the perfect amount of time to explore the area. I had an amazing time with my family and highly recommend! read more

My brother and I rode the Grand Canyon railway, and it was a great trip. We started the trip with a night in the Grand Canyon railway hotel. And then rode the train the next day. The Grand Canyon railway depot is actually on the grounds of the Grand Canyon, railway Hotel, directly behind the lobby. The day started with an old western show. Your typical good guys and bad guys, but it was a lot of fun. The actors had plenty of energy, of course they picked on somebody from the audience, and they made it very entertaining The same guys actually "attack" the train on the way back, and they also do an old west show in downtown Williams. these guys keep busy. I can't speak for the regular railroad seats, as we paid for a package that included the Vista Dome car. The seats are upstairs with a great view. The seats were comfortable. The Vista dome seats came with free snacks, and nonalcoholic drinks, , (you can also purchase food on the train,) and they had people from the bar come up to our seats. They have a good choice of cocktails and mocktails. I had the virgin bloody Mary, and it was delicious. It wasn't just tomato juice, it had a great. Flavor. Tangy, with just a little bit of heat. Throughout the train ride, there were people telling stories about the canyon, telling stories about the train, and there was music as well. You have a good amount of time to see the canyon We chose the bus tour and lunch as part of our package. You can also do the bus tour without lunch if you choose, or do things on your own. There is a free shuttle bus to sites around the south rim of the canyon. Lunch was a full all you can eat buffet, not a large number of choices, but very acceptable. A good amount of food, and it was tasty. The bus driver was friendly, and knowledgeable, we stopped at several spots along the canyon, and after our bus tour, we had time to explore Grand Canyon Village before we got back onto the train. The El Tovar hotel is beautiful, very close to the train depot, and it also has a nice gift shop as well. From the show at the beginning of the day, to the time the train came back to Williams, it was a total of about nine hours. A long day, but definitely worth it. For our entire package, including a night at the hotel, the upgraded seats, and the tour with lunch, it was approximately $650 total, with the military discount for the both of us. On the high side, yes, but definitely worth the trip. There is also a $30 charge added on to get into Grand Canyon national Park, my brother has a park pass so we didn't have to pay that. The prices will vary, of course, depending on whether you just go with the train ride, or you choose a full on package It's a great way to see the canyon. Highly recommended. Thank you. read more

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We rode in the Chief and Mary Colter cars, and our car captains, Teryl and Jovan, made the experience truly memorable. The 2 hour journey flew by because each of them brought their own unique personality and made the ride so enjoyable. The live musicians were a fantastic addition and made the trip even more fun. From start to finish, everything exceeded my expectations. As my first time visiting and experiencing the Grand Canyon, I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I highly recommend the Grand Canyon Railway to anyone considering it. Thank you for making our trip so memorable, I can't wait to do it again! read more

This historic Grand Canyon Railway departs daily from Williams, Arizona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. This train ride was so entertaining- it featured western musicians, cowboy characters on vintage rail cars, and an epic staged train robbery on the way back! It was quite the experience! We kickstarted our journey with a cool western showdown outside the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel (very amusing). Then we boarded our first class seats aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. It's a little pricier, but totally worth the leg room. The train ride is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes each way. Prices range from approximately $70 to over $230 per adult, depending on the class of service, with child fares available. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase (including alcohol). Overall, the experience was quite pleasant! The panoramic views are stunning! The staff are high-energy, funny, and charismatic! From start to finish, our journey was seamless filled with great entertainment and music for the whole family to enjoy! read more

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We went up to Williams and did the package of Grand Canyon Railroad 2 nights at the Williams hotel and a full day trip up to the south rim and after several hours of exploring the South Rim and having a fantastic lunch. Took the train back to Williams. Left at 9:15am and returned around 5pm. We did the luxury car on the way up and the luxury sky dome for the return trip. Both cars are very comfortable and have great views! The luxury car has a full service bar and snacks as well as a huge bathroom. The folks working on the car are great, tell great stories and have lots of information and details about the history of the train and the area that is traveled through. We did this in late September and got a great deal. Highly recommend, especially if you've never been to the Grand Canyon! read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Luxury car seat and cabin. - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

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What a nice trip we had. A 1 day trip to the GC with a 3 hours stop and then came back to Williams. You get your picture taken, the fee includes some pastries, fruit, black coffee and juice. You get some musicians during the ride and the cowboy show during the ride. We all enjoyed it vey much. We purchased the 1st class ticket and i am glad we did. Plenty of leg room, AC and you have a small bar area inside your wagon. Additionally, just like in an airplane, no smoking nor vaping!! I highly recommend this activity. read more

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I decided to treat ourselves to the "Chief" (luxury parlor class) absolute last car where you can stand on the balcony at the back of the train. Although pricey, it was totally worth it. I walked down the entire train to compare every single carriage with this one and this was worth it. The bottom line for me is I don't want to feel claustrophobic and so being able to walk out to the balcony at the back and just get the fresh air and see the scenery speeding away from me is so worth it. Anyway, we had food and drinks and treats and we had the most delightful attendant called Teryl I believe. She's a sweet lady who has the most fascinating stories and she speaks so eloquently and sweetly. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - My shadow from the back of the train (luxury ticket holders only) - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

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Our host Mr Hank, its just a joke, was helpful, informative and funny. They had a "marshaĺl" and a guitar player who sang pretty well. The only reason I did not give this a 5 was the selection in the café. Mainly chips and candy. They offered a turkey sandwich but it was pre-made yuck for 13 dollars, so no thanks. It was basically a concession stand. The views from the train are great and first class seating is worth the extra cost. 4 hours at the grand canyon might be ok if you didnt have to drive 3 hours to and from plus 2.5 hours each way on a train but, for a senior such as myself, it was a long day. Should also note we got robbed by 2 and a half men called the Cataract Gang on the way back. read more

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The Grand Canyon Railway was a great experience overall and one I'd recommend. The train ride is about 2.5 hours each way, with plenty of beautiful scenery along the route. Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon, you have about three hours to explore the viewpoints, take photos, grab a meal, and browse the gift shops before boarding the train back. Onboard, be prepared for western-themed entertainment. Performers move from car to car singing and playing guitar, accordion, and harmonica, and it's customary to tip them if you enjoy the show. The cowboys from the pre-departure stage performance also come through the train for a playful "robbery" skit while collecting tips. A photographer will also stop by to take photos at your seats, which are available for purchase for about $35 for two prints. Food and drinks from the café are convenient but on the expensive side. Our cabin guide, Johnny Arizona, was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely entertaining. However, I felt he got a little carried away with the jokes about Texans. He commented that Texans only know Taco Bell when it comes to Tex-Mex--something that drew more eye rolls than laughs from our group. He also joked that he has a problem with Houston because the Astros are "cheaters," despite several passengers wearing Astros hats. Good-natured sports rivalry is one thing, but repeatedly poking fun at an entire state and city over one team's past "one-year only" scandal didn't land well with us. As a result, I decided not to leave the $20 tip I had planned, and several others in our group felt the same way. Despite that, the Grand Canyon Railway was still a memorable and enjoyable experience. The scenery, entertainment, and opportunity to visit one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders made the trip well worth it. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

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We sat first class with Carol who was absolutely fabulous and help to elevate the already wonderful experience. The train ride was super comfy relaxing and entertaining. We enjoyed all of it. Carol was so sweet helpful and so funny. If it wasnt for her im sure we would have been late to our return trip from the Grand Canyon. The Wild West show was funny as well and we very much enjoyed it. I encourage gratuity for all as its so deserved. Being our first time we had no idea what to expect and only brought credit card was very sad we couldn't leave something nice for all involved as they all deserved it and work so hard...will be doing this again and definitely bringing some cash read more

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Me and my son took a trip from Williams to the Grand Canyon in a first class car out attendant was Emanuel he made the ride fun and enjoyable great customer service. It was also nice to have an entertainer sing a few songs. Well done to the entire team 10/10 stars read more

Absolutely a must do when going to the canyon! If possible get on "Jonny Arizona's" car! He was very informative and entertaining! You will not be disappointed! read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Jonny Arizona! Best host on the train! - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

Very nice experience. You boars the train in Williams AZ. And it takes a little over 2 hours. Light breakfast is served in the car. We had the top car. Very nice experience. read more

This was such an amazing experience I'm glad this was the first way we experienced traveling to the Grand Canyon. We were in the Arizona first class car with Sheryl as our guide who was hilarious and so knowledgeable. She made the trip even better than it already was. Everything from the pre-boarding cowboy show, on board entertainment, cafe car, roomy bathrooms and ability to move out seats so our family can face each other during the trip. This was such a smooth ride and especially perfect after a good hike in the canyon. read more

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The train moves at about 40 mph but the crew made the journey fun. we paid extra for first class that included some snacks in the morning and on the way back and a buffet lunch. To be honest the lunch was me. Our guide on the train gwas a young lady named Ava. She was phenomenal. She came around and stood and talked to each rider about their vacation and things that they could do in Williams. She was very personable and made it a lot of fun. There was also some entertainment aboard with a couple of singers and a surprise at the end. It was a great way to visit the Grand Canyon and if you select first class and get the bus tour, you'll see vistas that a lot of other people can't see because hikers cannot visit all areas. Great trip and we enjoyed our vacation in Arizona, especially the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and train. read more

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The trip from Williams Arizona to the Grand Canyon was not only entertaining, but extremely comfortable. I can't imagine doing the Grand Canyon any other way. read more

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The "shoot out" before the ride was entertaining. Johnny Arizona was so informative and funny too. We got history lessons about the places to see up there and still catch the train back. Plus on the ride back down his daughter was in a cow costume doing cartwheels along the track. Highly recommend! The musicians were great too. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Grand Canyon - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

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The most charming way to experience the Grand Canyon! Stayed in Williams and booked tickets on the train to go to the canyon. It's an early start to the day - they do a cute Wild West show before the train ride so get there about 30 minutes prior to departure. The staff on the train are informative and warm and make the journey unforgettable. They provide water and there's a cafe car with snacks. We also did the bus tour which was rly informative and a great way to experience the canyon. Such a special trip - highly recommend! read more

Our girlfriend booked this train trip for us all to go see the Grand Canyon. We had such a wonderful time. We actually made it just in time. We had tickets for 5 for the dome top area. This was perfect. The train was pretty slow but it allowed for some beautiful scenery and views. We actually had a complimentary bar with snacks and drinks both times back and forth. They had a bar where you could buy alcohol but also buy food. Our tour guide was super knowledgable and helpful. We had live entertainers play the guitar and violin for us. We also watched a small skit played by actors pretending to get robbed. This was wonderful and I'm so happy we did this together. It was worth the cost! I can't wait to bring my hubby and son here. read more

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Taking the train was only my second time trying something I saw on Instagram--and I'm so glad I did! This experience exceeded expectations and was truly unforgettable. I highly recommend it if you're considering a unique way to visit the Grand Canyon. This was my first trip to the Grand Canyon, and what a way to go! Booking tickets was super easy--just go online, select the train car you'd like (there are three levels), and you're all set. I chose First Class, and honestly, I don't know what more the Luxury option could even add--it was already fantastic! When you arrive, don't be thrown off by the setup. The train depot is located on the grounds of a full campus that includes a hotel, a restaurant, and an activity center. There's plenty of parking, and everything is well-organized. You do need to go inside to check in and receive your physical tickets. The process was smooth, the staff were incredibly friendly, and the lobby area has a charming gift shop and café where you can grab a snack or drink before boarding. Clean restrooms are also available inside. Before boarding, there's even a fun little Wild West-style gun show in an outdoor theater--great entertainment to kick things off! Your ticket will list your assigned train car (each one has a unique name), and passengers line up accordingly. Each car has its own dedicated attendant--I'd estimate one for every 50 people--who helps throughout the ride. Our attendant was friendly, knowledgeable, and shared fun stories with us along the way. You're treated to light snacks and hors d'oeuvres, and drinks are served after departing the national park (a rule they follow). One charming part of the journey is waving to dozens of people who come out daily just to greet the train--it's heartwarming. Each seat pair includes a local newspaper so you can sip your coffee and relax as you ride. There are also live musicians who come on board and perform throughout the trip--just a tip: if you want to leave a gratuity, do it on their final round. Restrooms on the train are clean, and you're free to walk through the cars, which I loved. It was fun to explore the train itself! Once at the Grand Canyon, you have about three hours to explore. The only thing I would change about the day is more time at the canyon! There are plenty of shops, a museum, a hotel, and places to eat, but honestly--just taking in the stunning views is enough. It was breathtaking. On the return trip, you get more hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and a relaxed ride back. Many people took naps on the way home, and I could see why--it's that peaceful. All in all, I can't say enough good things about this company and this experience. It's well worth the time, money, and effort. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan, riding the train to the Grand Canyon is an experience you won't forget. read more

10/10 experience for all ages! We bought tickets not knowing exactly what to expect, and it ended up being worth every penny! The pre-train show was absolutely hilarious and such a fun way to kick things off. Once on board, the entertainment continued with comedy and great storytelling--Jonny Arizona's history lesson was both fascinating and fun! The 2-hour and 15-minute train ride might sound long (especially with kids), but they do an amazing job keeping everyone engaged the whole time. There's also a snack and drink cart, which was a nice bonus and helped keep everyone happy if they needed a pick me up. We brought our own food and snacks. Once we arrived at the Grand Canyon, we had around 3 hours to explore, which was the perfect amount of time to take in the sights and hike. Highly recommend this experience--fun, educational, and memorable for the whole family! read more

Experiencing the Grand Canyon Railroad was nothing short of a revelation, and the true heart of this unforgettable journey was undoubtedly Johnny Arizona. Having traveled extensively and participated in countless guided tours around the world, I can say without hesitation that I have never been so thoroughly captivated, educated, and entertained as I was by Johnny. His presence transformed the entire trip into an extraordinary adventure. Johnny Arizona was more than a guide; he was a master storyteller, a consummate professional, and a genuine soul who ensured every passenger felt cared for and engaged. From the moment we boarded in Williams, Arizona, Johnny took it upon himself to make sure everyone was comfortable, well-informed, and included in the experience. He personally served water, weaving his way down the aisle with a warmth and charm that instantly connected him to each of us. His humor was impeccable--sharp, timely, and endlessly entertaining. Johnny's jokes had the entire train laughing, creating a lively, joyous atmosphere that perfectly complemented the breathtaking landscapes outside our windows. But what truly set him apart was the personal touch: sharing heartfelt stories about his family and even telling jokes passed down from his daughter. These moments of genuine connection made the ride feel intimate and special, like traveling with a close friend rather than a guide. The panoramic views of the Arizona wilderness were stunning, but it was Johnny's vivid storytelling and infectious enthusiasm that elevated the journey into something magical. This experience was not just the highlight of the train ride--it was the highlight of my entire week-long vacation in Arizona. I feel incredibly fortunate to have shared this adventure with such a remarkable man who brought the Grand Canyon Railroad to life in a way I never imagined possible. As someone who works in the travel industry back in New Hampshire, I will enthusiastically recommend the Grand Canyon Railroad to anyone visiting the area. And I will especially urge them to seek out Johnny Arizona as their guide--because a trip like this, with a guide like him, is truly unforgettable. Thank you, Grand Canyon Railroad, and a heartfelt thank you to Johnny Arizona for making this journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

Highly recommend this train to the Grand Canyon. You board at the hotel, after a 15 minute cowboy themed pre-show, and it's a 2 hr ride give or take to the canyon. Train depot doubles as a coffee counter and souvenir shop. Our hostess on our car in coach was Teryl who had tons of stories and trivia about the canyon, Williams, AZ, trains and more. There was a singing cowboy with a guitar that got our whole car singing along to Sweet Caroline, Folsom Prison Blues and more. On the way back, train robbers on horseback boarded our train and "robbed" us which was all very exciting for the kids. Lol. It was a really fun experience overall. If I had one critique, I'd say the cafe/snack car needs work. They had a few candy bars and cans of soda, prepackaged caramel corn. Sell some popcorn, or baked goods or hot dogs or something. Otherwise an A+ experience. read more

We had a great time on the train especially having Sheryl on board our train car. She was hilarious and did a great job as we traveled on our 2 hr. 15 min. journey there and back. read more

We traveled in the Pullman car and were lucky to have Sheryl as our host and guide. She had us laughing the whole ride with her jokes and life stories. Sheryl also kept all of us well hydrated, frequently walking up and down the aisle refilling everyone's cups and/or bottles with ice cold water, while offering tips/advice on where to go and what to see in the area. Best of all-- when our ten month old baby wouldn't settle and wouldn't nap, Sheryl picked him up and gave him special attention (which he loved). She did this a few times and it not only provided the baby a break, but us parents and grandparents too! Thank you Sheryl for a wonderful trip! read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Pullman Host/Guide Sheryl after she offered to hold our overtired ten month old. Thank you, Sheryl! - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

The train is a pleasant, albeit slow, way of getting to the Grand Canyon National Park. The train goes no faster than 40; it takes 2:15 plus to bo 70 miles. The ride is pretty. The employees are very nice and all try to be good hosts. There are several classes of service. I chose one of two luxury cars, the one with beautiful big windows. The other luxury car is on the first floor. The view car was cramped and uncomfortable. But it was lovely. We sat in the more comfortable car on the way back. It does t have the view, but we sat on plush sofas with leg room. This was not close to me. The train drops you off at a depot quite near the south rim. It was a nice way to get there. But 5 hours plus up and back with. boarding waiting is a long time. It isn't inexpensive. But it's romantic. I'd say 3 1/2 stars. But the luxury space on the return trip pus. And it got better near the end when the train was robbed by friendly bandits. It was corny but fun. read more

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A stress-free, commuter-friendly, family-friendly, nostalgic, alternative to driving into the Grand Canyon. Everyone was so professional, friendly, and pleasant. Lily, Ivan, Sheryl, Josh, among others, were so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The western themed entertainment threw it over a notch. A must, if you are visiting the Grand Canyon the first time. Or if you just want to skip the traffic, relax, and enjoy the experience. Loved the overall experience, and value for the price. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

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Riding on the Grand Canyon Railway to The Grand Canyon redeemed what shortfalls the hotel had! It was a comfortable trip that was heavily accommodated. Full bar and snacks are available. Everything about the ride and trip to the Canyon was well communicated and highly enjoyable. Even in the snow. read more

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Absolutely loved this entire experience! We had Jane as our guide and she was amazing. She kept us laughing, taught us all about the area and made sure everyone was taken care of. They had live entertainers as well. They had a great selection of snacks as well which was nice. read more

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We had the most amazing time! Taryl was the best!! We will absolutely be coming back. Luxury cart tickets were 100% worth it. read more

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Grand Canyon via old restored steam train. Musicians played music, sang songs to entertain passengers. Free snacks, coffee, sodas, etc for first class and water only for coach passengers. Bathrooms in each car. "Train robbery" on the way back. Great fun. And such an easy way to get to Grand Canyon without trying to drive there on your own. Pro tip: get your national park pass at least a week or two ahead of time so you don't need to pay them extra for it. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - The train - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

What a fun and relaxing trip. Start in Williams, Arizona. Before boarding watch the Western show for a bit of entertainment while you wait to board the train. I advise purchasing the air conditioned coach seating as it is a nice relief from the hot outside. We were entertained by the railway staff, a guitarist played lively songs, and we even had a train robbery by the western show actors. In addition to the entertainment, we were looking for wildlife outside our windows and waving to locals along the train line. This is a great experience for children of all ages and the end result at the Grand Canyon is breathtaking.Highly recommend. read more

The train ride is a great way to get to the canyon. We opted for the luxury car and did the return trip the same day. Unfortunately you could end up with someone who is there strictly for the bar on the train which makes for a long ride. Overall it's a positive experience because the staff is great. We had 2 different singers on the way up & back as well as a good old fashioned bank robbery. Our car guide/bartender was full of knowledge and great stories, very personable and funny. Thank you "Tom Hanks"! read more

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Had the most wonderful time! This was a blast! Our host Johnny Arizona was fabulous! Between him, the musicians, and cowboy actors we made the best memories! We hope to come again around Christmas time! Definitely would recommend to everyone we know. read more

I can't think of a better way to experience the absolutely amazing Grand Canyon. Two hour train ride, three hours at the Grand Canyon Village, two hour train ride back to Williams. No driving, no parking, no stress. 10/10 read more

We gave this our best effort. We had some fun but one of the train car attendants left me shocked. I'm a photographer and one of the guests in the back said it was a great place to get a photo. Unbeknownst to me you're not allowed to go back on the train. Only forward. The attendant in the second to last car yelled at me and was super rude. I get it, I was in the wrong, but that was uncalled for. After the amount we paid, plus the tips, I won't recommend this to anyone. Just drive. read more

Grand Canyon Railway - Our car. - Trains Near Me - Williams, Arizona

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Just got back from our trip. We got the package from Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. This review so only for the train ride to and from the Grand Canyon: Train left Williams on time and was clean, comfortable and safe. Maryellen was our car attendant and she was great. She had great stories and served us water and filled up our water bottles for the Grand Canyon . Her service and personality was first class. The musicians were also really great and talented. The train was "robbed" by the local actors and it was fun for the grandkids. We visited the cafe car and got some ice cream. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience and our grandkids had a blast. The cost was reasonable when it was packaged with the hotel and restauraunt deal. read more

Outstanding Grand Canyon Railway Experience We recently took the round-trip journey from Williams to South Rim Canyon Village on the Grand Canyon Railway's Luxury Dome car, and it exceeded our expectations in every way. The entire staff was exceptional--from check-in through the train ride and connecting bus tour. I'll admit I was skeptical about the onboard entertainment with actors performing skits, thinking it might be cheesy. Instead, they added tremendous fun and personality to the journey. We opted for the 4-hour bus tour at Grand Canyon Village, and I can't recommend it highly enough. It's absolutely worth adding to your ticket. The combination of the luxury train experience and the comprehensive bus tour made for a perfect day exploring one of America's natural wonders. Highly recommended for anyone considering a Grand Canyon visit! read more

Great experience. It was fun. I love the cowboy show and the mock train rob. The staff are all professional.

First of all our car Steward was the best, from knowledge about different areas of the train ride, to sheer just pleasant personality and amazing service, made this experience one not to forget.... We had a blast at the layover, and Carol knew exactly where everyone needed to go. You just know she loves her job!!! Which is greatly appreciated. read more

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